The Highlands combines a jaw-dropping natural setting on the slopes of the extinct Olmoti volcano with just eight high-tech tents and exciting activities like hiking the Olmoti, and descending not only into world-famous Ngorongoro Crater but also the lesser-known but equally incredible Empakaai Crater.
The en suite tents, which have flush toilets and hot running water, are fronted by celling-to-floor faceted windows that allow you to drink in the surrounding wilderness and Africa’s big sky. As a high-altitude camp, the tents are both warm and stylish, with enclosed fireplaces to ward off the morning and evening chill. There are eight tents, including one for families and another for honeymooners.
In keeping with the exquisite attention to detail paid throughout the design and construction of The Highlands, the open-air breakfast deck has been perfectly positioned to make the most of the view, while the bar and fire pit overlook the sunset.
In addition to classic game drives to and hot-lunch picnics in Ngorongoro Crater, The Highlands offers unusual access to two of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area’s lesser-seen gems. A half-day hike takes you to the birds, butterflies and myriad fern species on an ancient Maasai cattle trail to the Olmoti crater. Game like buffalo, zebra and bushbuck and the occasional elephant can be spied by hikers.
Another memorable journey is a drive to the Empakaai Crater, followed by a hike into the crater floor to see flocks of pink flamingos and the mountainous forest. You will also be able to aspects of traditional Maasai life, as well as catch a glimpse of Oldoinyo Lengai, Tanzania’s most active volcano.